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The Earwig (Forifculidae) is a family of the order Dermaptera. The body is narrow and terminates in characteristic forceps which are used in folding the hind wings after use. The fore wings are modified into wing covers, and are short and rectangular. Beneath them lie the rarely used hind wings, which are elaborately folded after the manner of a fan. The young are similar in appearance to their parents but smaller and without wings. The common earwig is Forficula auricularia and is found all over Europe.
The earwig gets its name from its supposed habit of insinuating itself into the ears of persons. This is practically impossible, yet the notion was widely spread, as appears from the names given to the earwig in different languages, as in French perceoreille (pierce-ear) and in German ohrenhohler (ear-borer).
 Research Earwig
Curleywig is Dorset slang for an earwig.
Research Curleywig
Earwig is British slang for to eavesdrop.
Earwig is British slang for an eavesdropper.
Earwig is London Cockney rhyming slang for understand (twig).
Research Earwig
Philistine was old Norfolk slang for an earwig; a bug or insect.
Research Philistine
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The Probert Encyclopaedia was designed, edited and programed by
Matt and Leela Probert
©1993 - 2009 The Probert Encyclopaedia
Southampton, United Kingdom
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